Concerns Raised Over Newly Completed Drainage and Road Project in Barangay Margot

Community leader and former priest Cris Cadiang has voiced serious concerns over the recently completed drainage system, road, and fence project in Barangay Margot. Describing the infrastructure as an "accident waiting to happen," Cadiang highlighted the dangers posed by the construction to local residents and commuters.

Cadiang explained that the project involved widening a creek known locally as "Butarul," which channels rainwater from Clark to the Abacan River. Despite the effort to improve floodwater passage, he criticized the Clark Development Corporation (CDC), which spearheaded the project, for neglecting pedestrian safety.

"During construction, the fence was torn down, and I expected that when rebuilt, CDC would allocate at least two meters for a sidewalk to prevent it from becoming a hazard," Cadiang stated on social media. He argued that the CDC Engineering Department should have set aside easement spaces on both sides of the road, using existing electric posts as markers for where the fence could have been placed.

Cadiang lamented, "Granting that the area is Clark property, two meters is a minor concession compared to the size of Clark. The lack of consideration shows insensitivity, irresponsibility, and disregard for the safety of the public."

Efforts are reportedly underway by barangay officials to engage the CDC to address the issue. While a yellow-black painted warning on the wall offers some caution, Cadiang emphasized that the underlying dangers remain unresolved.

A CDC manager responded that their Engineering Department merely restored the structure without altering the original design, implying the safety measures were consistent with previous configurations.

The debate underscores concerns about balancing infrastructure development and public safety in local projects.